Vancouver Whitecaps defender Belal Halbouni diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma
The 26-year-old centre back has begun treatment and signed a contract extension through the 2027-28 season.
VANCOUVER · Vancouver Whitecaps centre back Belal Halbouni said Friday he has been diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma. The 26-year-old from London, Ont., began treatment for the form of cancer in his hometown last week, the Major League Soccer team said in a statement. The club also confirmed Friday that Halbouni has signed a contract extension through the 2027-28 season. Halbouni joined the team in February 2024 and has made 26 appearances across all competitions. The Whitecaps will close out their regular season Saturday at CF Montreal.
"Belal and his family have the full support of everyone at the club," Whitecaps sporting director Axel Schuster said. "Belal will take time away from football to focus on his treatment and recovery. We will be here for him every step of the way, and we look forward to welcoming him back when the time is right." The sporting director's statement was released by the club as part of its announcement.
What did Belal Halbouni say about his diagnosis and the club's support?
In his own statement, Halbouni expressed deep gratitude for the Whitecaps organization. "I want to express my gratitude to Vancouver Whitecaps FC," Halbouni said. "The way this club has stood by me goes far beyond football, and it has reminded me what it truly means to be part of a family." He elaborated on his feelings toward the club and city. "I'm proud to represent this badge, grateful to call Vancouver home, and thankful for the light at the end of the tunnel that they give me."
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What are the details of Halbouni's contract extension?
The Whitecaps announced the contract extension on the same day as his diagnosis. The new deal will keep Halbouni with the club through the 2027-28 Major League Soccer season. This commitment from the club comes as Halbouni begins his treatment away from the team. The extension secures his place with the Whitecaps for multiple seasons beyond his current recovery period.
What has been Belal Halbouni's contribution to the Whitecaps?
Halbouni signed with the Whitecaps ahead of the 2024 MLS season. According to MLSsoccer.com, he has one goal and one assist in 29 appearances across all competitions with Vancouver. His contributions helped the team reach the MLS Cup presented by Audi and Concacaf Champions Cup finals in 2025. He also helped the club win back-to-back Canadian Championships in 2024 and 2025. The defender has been a part of 26 matches as noted in other reports.
What is the team's situation as Halbouni steps away?
The Vancouver Whitecaps lead the Western Conference standings with 61 points, holding a record of 18 wins, eight losses and seven draws. Their final regular season match is scheduled for Saturday at CF Montreal. The team will continue its campaign without Halbouni as he focuses on his treatment and recovery in London, Ontario. The club's statement affirmed its full support for the player and his family throughout the process.
With files from The Canadian Press, CBC News and Sportsnet